NZ vs AUS 2024: Devon Conway ruled out of third T20I, Seifert added to squad

Devon Conway has been ruled out of the ongoing home T20I series against Australia. Notably, Australia have taken an unassailable lead in the series, winning the first two games.

After suffering a left thumb injury while wicket-keeping in the second game in Auckland on February 23, he had to leave the field, and Finn Allen took his place as the wicketkeeper. Notably, the opening batter will go back to his home in Wellington to consult with a hand specialist. Notably, 'no visible fracture' had been found on the X-rays, despite initial concerns on Friday.

Also read: Devon Conway cleared of major injury after suffering blow to thumb during second T20I against Australia

Tim Seifert has been selected by New Zealand to take Conway's place, and he will report to the team on Saturday, February 24, ahead of the third game, which is scheduled to take place at Eden Park in Auckland on Sunday. Seifert, who was previously declared ineligible for the series due to a torn abductor, seemed eager to go, though, having passed a fitness test. 

With Seifert in the lineup, New Zealand will have the wicket-keeping alternative. In the game's shortest format, he has so far appeared in 56 games for the Kiwis and amassed 1204 runs with a strike rate of 134.67. He has acquired eight half-centuries in his T20I career and has the chance to establish himself with the ICC Men's T20 World Cup is approaching.

Due to the short turnaround between games, BlackCaps coach Gary Stead revealed that Otago pace bowler Jacob Duffy would also be included in the T20I team as a reserve for the bowling group. In addition, the coach also stated that after missing the second game due to a left knee injury, ace all-rounder Rachin Ravindra's availability for the third game would be determined on Saturday. An extra batting cover will be included in the team and might be announced. 

Also read: Remaining tickets go on sale with 100 days to go until ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024